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Bump Watch
FEBRUARY 07

ASK A GROOVY GAL
TFG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JILLIAN SWARTZ ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS JUST FOR
THE HEALTH OF IT

Editor

My former sleeping beauty gets up every night at 11. HELP!  Do you have any suggestions on how to get my two-year-old to sleep through the night again?–Amy, Fort Collins, CO
Oh, Amy, I am your sleepless sister. I selfishly chose this question to answer because I have a mid-night waker, too.  All experts taut the obvious wind down period and the benefits of sticking to a routine night after night. They suggest security blankets, toys, night lights and the usual sleepy time suspects. Experts from far and wide also urge parents to be firm with their child regarding bedtime and staying in her own bed. This is one sticking point that's come unglued in my house. The best thing you can do is put your wee one into her bed, tuck her in, kiss her goodnight and tell her you'll see her in the morning. If she wakes up, then repeat, repeat, repeat. Don't give in. Eventually, you will break her of her habit. Easier said then done, but worth it in the long run. Sweet dreams!

Click here for our article on how to get your kids to sleep tight with the help of Feng Shui:
Calm Sleep

My kids got hooked on juice. Are there any juices out on the market that are not just sugar and empty calories?
–Sandy, Middletown, NJ

Laundress

The deal with juice is that even 100% all-natural ones, though better than fruit drinks, have very little nutritional value. Children should be encouraged to eat whole fruits instead. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children ages one to six drink no more than four to six ounces of juice day. Older kids should be limited to eight to twelve ounces.

I found a great substitute for juice: O Water. This water, purified by reverse osmosis and distillation, has a hint of fruit, flavored from the actual oil and fruit essence. It's sweet, but not too sweet and low in calories (only 25 per serving). We all need to drink more water—this is one the whole family will like.

Go to www.obeverages.com for more information. Here's to your health!


Does using an antiperspirant cause breast cancer?—Rachel, Warwick, RI

Real Purity

I've heard that rumor, too. According to www.breastcancer.org, a large study found no connection between antiperspirant use and breast cancer. However, scientists are still looking into a potential link. Many underarm hygiene products have parabens in them (a group of chemicals that behaves like a weak form of the hormone estrogen). Parabens have prompted the growth of breast cancer cells in test tubes and the growth of uterine cells in mice.

So, to answer your question: I don't know. I do know that it's easy enough to air on the side of caution. There are some good, paraben-free deodorants on the market today, such the Roll-On Deodorant by Real Purity ($8.54, www.purebodysolutions.com) or Nature's Gate Organics Chamomille and Lemon Verbena Deodorant ($22.76 for a four-pack, www.amazon.com). Stick to it!
pack and play

Click here to read about Jillian's life in the 'hood—motherhood.    

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